Summer Tennis Camp:
National Junior Tennis League Gets Noticed

Wednesday, July 29, 1998

By Art Redd
SJSports Staff Writer

This was just another example of a South Jersey resident giving back to his community and being recognized for his contributions to the youth. Today, 62 youths were not only excited about participating in the National Junior Tennis League (NJTL), but also trying to get the attention of two reporters from KYW Channel 3 News. Greg "Graig" White along with Lawrence E. Newton, Community Coordinator for the Philadelphia Youth Tennis (PYT), were doing what they do best: Providing an avenue for the young kids to take part in a well received tennis program.

"It's all about the kids and for the kids." Those were the words expressed by both White and Newton. The NJTL of Philadelphia has become one of the largest and most successful NJTL chapters in the country during its 28 year history. And now it has expanded its program into South Jersey with the guidance of physical fitness instructor Greg White. "He doing a knockout job over here in Camden and we are expanding the game of tennis," Newton said about Greg White. Ukee Washington and Robin Roberts from KYW-TV were also here to recognize the efforts of the youth program.

The PYT is the non-profit umbrella organization which runs the Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis Center and National Junior League. The recent merger of NJTL with PYT enables the program to offer tennis opportunities annually through comprehensive youth tennis programs year-round. Arthur Ashe co-founded NJTL in 1968 and gave his name to the center in 1982. "Philadelphia's link with Arthur remains strong, and our commitment to carry on his legacy in unwavering," said Newton. "The program has been expanded in Camden for the past two years. Arthur believed that tennis is a hook, a way to teach youngsters life lessons that reach far beyond the tennis court. He felt that education is the key to success and saw tennis as a means to unlock the door for many youth today."

"We provide tennis and we are a tennis organization, all inclusive, all cultures, all areas of the city and all social economic groups," said Newton. "We provide the rackets, the balls and all the enthusiasm that comes within their sneaks," Newton went on to mention. The NJTL will be going on up until the 13th of August.

For more information about the NJTL, you can call (215) 424-5300 or email Greg White at gwhite@teamconditioning.com.

Photos by Art Redd